Daybreak Game Company Suffers Layoffs After Leaving Sony

Sony Online Entertainment has undergone some massive changes over the past two weeks, including the laying off of David Georgeson, the current face of the Everquest series.

Pink slips were handed out at the former studio formerly known as Sony Online Entertainment days after it was sold to Columbus Nova and rebranded as the Daybreak Game Company, Kotaku reports. While no specific number of layoffs were released, among those being let go is David Georgeson, the face of the Everquest series and its most recent Director of Development. These layoffs are likely a part of Columbus Nova's attempt to rebrand and reorganize the studio in an attempt to steer it towards more profit. Nevertheless, this is a sad day for fans of Everquest.

David Georgeson confirmed his release via Twitter:

"Most of management keeps trying to get people pumped up about the new direction, but no one knows for sure they'll be a part of it yet," said a member of Daybreak who wished to remain anonymous.

A Daybreak representative sent Kotaku the following statement:

As part of a strategic decision to rationalize the business, Daybreak Game Company announced today that it will eliminate positions in both its San Diego and Austin studios. This alignment of resources better positions the newly independent studio for future growth opportunities and developments, including delivering on its legacy of making top online games and establishing a solid foundation for future multi-platform success. These reductions will not affect the operation of current games and the company will continue on its mission to partner with its player community to drive the future and push the boundaries of online gaming.

We always cringe when studios claim layoffs won't affect their current projects, when we all know they will. Layoffs are always a sad occurrence in the industry and have been happening far too often. Here's to hoping that Daybreak's former employees land on their feet and find better jobs in the gaming market.